THE RACE FOR HUNTINGTON BEACH UNION HIGH SCHOOL BOARD

Angelique Flores

Marjorie O’Neill is a longtime resident of Westminster and Huntington

Beach. A graduate of Westminster High School, she is now an adoption

social worker and works closely with local schools.

“I’ve observed firsthand how dedicated parents, teachers and efficient

administrators can work together to help all children experience academic

success,” she said.

O’Neill said her experience with foster children uniquely qualifies

her to make decisions regarding programs that help children with various

abilities.

“The most important issue for the district should always be its

commitment to raising academic standards,” she said. “I believe in a

traditional education that places a priority on English and arithmetic.”

She understands the need for the school to better prepare students for

the challenges of working in a time of rapid technological growth.

“The students must have access to state-of-the-art computers and

instruction,” she said.

A supporter of the Digital High School program, she would closely

monitor its implementation, if elected.

O’Neill has volunteered for health-care reform and on candidates’

campaigns in local elections.

She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in

clinical psychology.

BIO: MARJORIE O’NEILL

* Age: 32

* Family: Engaged

* Community Activism: Sunday school teacher for two years and

volunteer for various activities to support foster children

* Contact: (714) 473-5879 and o7 [email protected]

MARJORIE O’NEILL ON:

* THE DISTRICT’S BIGGEST CHALLENGES:”The biggest challenge over the

next decade will be to continually improve the condition of our

buildings. [They] must be safe and should also provide an environment

that is conducive to learning.”

O’Neill said setting up a repair and replacement reserve would

guarantee a percentage of the budget goes toward facility maintenance.

“Ensuring fiscal accountability is always a priority, and I believe

the board needs to ensure that more money will be going directly to the

classroom.”

* PLANS TO DEMOLISH BUILDING NO. 300:

“Building No. 300 should be rebuilt because we must ensure the safety

of our students.”

The building qualifies for emergency funds from the state, O’Neill

added, and the state will not provide sufficient funds to rebuild to the

current size. However, emergency funds that are now available from the

state may not be available in the future if the decision to rebuild is

delayed.

“The state’s restrictions emphasize a need for greater local control,

as the state clearly does not see the needs of Fountain Valley High

School.”